If you have a craving for something irresistibly creamy, fruity, and just a little bit decadent, then this Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert. Imagine a velvety cheesecake that perfectly balances the lush tartness of cherries with the subtle crunch of mini chocolate chips, all nestled on a buttery Oreo crust. This dreamy dessert is as delightful to the eyes as it is to your taste buds, and it’s surprisingly simple to make, ensuring your guests will be wowed at your next gathering or family dinner. Let’s dive into all the goodness this Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe has to offer!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe plays an important role in delivering that smooth, rich texture and the perfect harmony of flavors. From the crumbly Oreo crust that adds a chocolatey foundation to the luscious cherry-infused cream cheese filling, each element pulls the dessert together beautifully.
- 20 Oreo Cookies (crushed into crumbs): Provides a chocolatey, crunchy crust that adds texture and depth.
- 3 Tablespoons butter (melted): Binds the Oreo crumbs into a firm base that holds its shape.
- 3 – 8 ounce packages of Cream Cheese (softened): The creamy heart of the cheesecake, lending richness and smoothness.
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt: Adds a subtle tang and lightens the cream cheese filling for a balanced flavor.
- 1 cup Sugar: Sweetens the mixture just enough to complement the cherry and chocolate notes.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet undertones.
- 2 teaspoons Cherry Syrup: Infuses the filling with authentic cherry flavor that brightens every bite.
- Cherry Pink Food Coloring Gel (approximately 1 teaspoon): Gives the cheesecake a vibrant and inviting color.
- 1/2 Cup Mini Chocolate Chips (I used Ghirardelli): Adds delightful chocolate bursts throughout the cheesecake.
- 4 Tablespoons Butter (softened – not melted): Essential for the frosting’s creamy texture.
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened): Creates a dreamy, tangy frosting to complement the cheesecake.
- 4 cups Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting, giving it that silky smooth finish.
- 1 Tablespoon Cocoa: Provides a subtle chocolate undertone for the frosting’s rich flavor.
- Brown Food Coloring Gel: Used to tint the frosting with a gentle cocoa hue.
- Cherry Pink Food Coloring Gel: Adds a pop of color for decoration and extra charm.
- Sugared Cherry Gelle Slices: Perfect for garnishing and introducing a sparkly texture on top.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (to sprinkle on top): A finishing touch that brings extra chocolate crunch and appeal.
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Create the Oreo Crust
Start by crushing 20 Oreo cookies into fine crumbs—using a food processor makes this super easy—but a zip-top bag and rolling pin work just as well. Mix the crumbs with 3 tablespoons of melted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan to form an even, solid crust. This base will add a wonderful chocolate crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy cheesecake.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add Greek yogurt, sugar, and vanilla, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in cherry syrup and about a teaspoon of cherry pink food coloring gel to achieve that beautiful rosy tint. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips so they’re evenly distributed. Pour this luscious mixture over your Oreo crust, smoothing the top thoughtfully. This step is key to achieving that signature creamy, fruity, and chocolate-studded experience.
Step 3: Chill the Cheesecake
Cover your cheesecake and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This resting time allows the flavors to meld perfectly and the cheesecake to set firmly so every slice holds its shape beautifully.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
Once your cheesecake is fully set, blend softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar alongside cocoa and a touch of brown food coloring gel to create a chocolate-tinted frosting. For extra flair, mix in some cherry pink food coloring gel and pipe or spread the frosting over the cheesecake. The frosting adds an irresistible finishing touch that complements the rich filling.
Step 5: Garnish and Decorate
Top your cheesecake with sugared cherry gelle slices and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips. These garnishes add sparkle, texture, and make your cheesecake look as stunning as it tastes.
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cherries or sugared cherry slices bring color and a burst of fresh fruitiness that brightens the palate. Mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top provide that delightful crunch that keeps every bite exciting and texturally satisfying—perfect for impressing friends at a dinner party.
Side Dishes
A light side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream pairs wonderfully. These creamy companions contrast beautifully with the slightly tangy cheesecake and intensify the dessert experience without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special touch, serve each slice on a pretty dessert plate with a drizzle of warm cherry sauce or melted chocolate. You can garnish the plate with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers to elevate the visual appeal and delight your guests’ senses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten cheesecake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain its flavor and creamy texture. This dessert actually tastes better after resting a day or two as the flavors continue to meld.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe even later, freeze it by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its perfect texture.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best served chilled, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer your cheesecake slightly less cold, just let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular yogurt for Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess and a bit more tanginess that enhances the flavor depth in this Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe.
What kind of cherries work best in this recipe?
Use good-quality cherry syrup for the filling and sugared cherry gelle slices for garnish to get that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that complements the chocolate chips.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Make sure your cream cheese is softened and mix everything gently to avoid overbeating. Chilling the cheesecake slowly and fully also helps prevent cracks while achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
You can swap out Oreo cookies for gluten-free chocolate cookies to make the crust gluten-free without sacrificing the rich chocolate flavor.
Is it okay to use regular food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is recommended because it provides vibrant color without adding extra liquid, which can affect the cheesecake’s texture. But if you only have liquid coloring, use it sparingly.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe is such a wonderful gift to anyone who loves a dessert that plays with contrast in the best way possible—creamy and crunchy, tangy and sweet, chocolatey and fruity. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy every single time. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!
Print
Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Chocolate Chip Cheesecake is a decadent no-bake dessert featuring a crunchy Oreo crust, creamy cherry-flavored cheesecake filling, and a luscious chocolate cherry frosting. Topped with sugared cherry gelée slices and mini chocolate chips, it’s a perfect treat for special occasions or anytime you crave a fruity, chocolatey delight.
Ingredients
Crust
- 20 Oreo Cookies (crushed into crumbs)
- 3 Tablespoons butter (melted)
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 – 8 ounce packages of Cream Cheese (softened)
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 teaspoons Cherry Syrup
- Approximately 1 teaspoon Cherry Pink Food Coloring Gel
- 1/2 Cup Mini Chocolate Chips (Ghirardelli recommended)
Chocolate Cherry Frosting
- 4 Tablespoons Butter (softened, not melted)
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
- 4 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Cocoa Powder
- Brown Food Coloring Gel (amount to desired shade)
- Cherry Pink Food Coloring Gel (amount to desired shade)
Toppings
- Sugared Cherry Gelée Slices (see linked recipe)
- Mini Chocolate Chips (to sprinkle on top)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until fully incorporated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust layer. Place in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add Greek yogurt, sugar, vanilla extract, cherry syrup, and cherry pink food coloring gel. Mix well until the color and flavors are evenly combined. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. Spread the filling evenly over the chilled Oreo crust. Refrigerate to allow the cheesecake to set.
- Prepare the chocolate cherry frosting: In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing continuously to achieve a creamy frosting. Add brown and cherry pink food coloring gels to create a chocolate cherry color. Adjust to desired shade and consistency.
- Frost the cheesecake: Once the cheesecake filling is set, spread the chocolate cherry frosting evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
- Add toppings and chill: Decorate the frosted cheesecake with sugared cherry gelée slices and mini chocolate chips. Refrigerate the entire cheesecake for several hours or overnight to fully set before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth blending.
- The cheesecake is no-bake but requires chilling time for proper setting.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of cherry syrup and food coloring to taste and desired color intensity.
- Sugared cherry gelée slices add a decorative and flavorful topping but can be omitted or replaced with fresh cherries.
